Edward Lee Sever

In Loving Memory of Edward Sever

February 1, 1957 – July 22, 2025

Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, Firefighter, and Hero

Edward "Ed" Sever, proud U.S. Army veteran and longtime firefighter with the Calumet Township Fire Department, passed away peacefully at his home on July 22, 2025. He was 68 years old.

Born on February 1, 1957, Ed lived a life defined by courage, service, and fierce devotion to his wife, family and community. After graduating from Calumet High School in 1976, he joined the military, proudly serving in the 82nd Airborne Division of the U.S. Army. After his time in the service, Ed discovered his true passion: firefighting, following in the footsteps of his father, Alyosius Sever, who also served as a firefighter.

He went on to join the Calumet Township Fire and Rescue, where he became known for his steady leadership, his mastery of the aerial ladder truck, and his fearless cliffside rescues at Houghton Douglas Falls and Brockway Mountain. His skill, dedication, and heroism earned him the title of Firefighter of the Year in 2009. Ed devoted more than four decades to protecting others before retiring in August of 2020.

Whether in uniform or at home, Ed carried the same sense of duty, pride, and heart. He was a rock for his wife, family and a quiet hero to many.

Ed loved gathering with family and friends, but his favorite time of year was Christmas. He cherished the warmth, laughter, and togetherness of the holidays with his friends, fellow firefighters, and family, often raising a heartfelt salute with his signature Hartley's Brandy in hand. Those Christmas memories, full of joy and love, will live on in all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alyosius and Joyce Sever, and brothers, Tommy and Steven Ayotte.

Ed is survived by his loving wife, Jacqueline Sever, and his children:

Cynthia (Tim) Stites and their children, Jett, Danni, and Tyson

Sabrina Sever (Thomas Joyal) and daughter, Olivia

Misty (Jason) Meneguzzo and their children, Naudia, Tessa, and Domico

Keith (Kylie) Sever and their children, Jordanna, Korbin, Faith, and Trent

Sherry White (Steve) and daughters, Savannah and Nevaeha

He is also survived by his siblings, Allen Ayotte, Debra (Larry) Sweitch, and Janis Sever, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

To me, his daughter, he was so much more than a firefighter or a soldier. He was my hero. He taught us how to be brave, how to serve others, and how to love unconditionally, but to never cry "there is nothing worth crying for," he would say. His stories, his strength, and his laughter will echo in our hearts forever.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025 from 4:30-7:00pm at the Erickson Crowley Peterson Funeral Home in Calumet, Michigan.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 1, 2025 at 1:00pm at the Erickson Crowley Peterson Funeral Home in Calumet, Michigan with Father Gracious officiating. There will be a visitation prior to the service from 12:00 -1:00pm. Following the service on Friday, Ed will be laid to rest in the Veterans Section of Lake View Cemetery in Calumet.

Rest easy, Dad. Your work here is done, but your legacy will never fade.